68. A client is having severe pain in the lower back and left leg. The client has sensation in all extremities, but is not moving the left leg. While waiting for a diagnostic x-ray, the client asks for pain medication. The correct response by the nurse would be to:
. Tell the client nothing can be given until a diagnosis is made.
. Give half of the usual dose of analgesic to minimize pain.
. Request order for an opioid to achieve maximum relief.
. Offer two acetaminophen tablets.
Test-Taking Tip
Relief of pain is a priority. Unrelieved pain can cause shock.
Content Area: Adult Health, Pain Control; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Implementation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies/Pharmacological Pain Management
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Answer 1 is incorrect because treatment of pain is a priority and will not interfere with the ability to diagnose a fracture of back or limb. Answer 2 is incorrect because the pain needs to be relieved, not minimized. Answer 3 is correct because pain needs to be treated immediately and maximally, to avoid potential complications such as shock. Answer 4 is incorrect because this analgesic choice will not relieve severe pain.